JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are working with our client, a leading financial services firm, on an excellent opportunity for a Senior Specialist - Pension Drawdown to join the team in Newcastle. You will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end pension technical process and timely delivery of complex tasks.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Extensive technical experience within pension/platform administration gained preferably in a pension/platform/financial services environment.
• Extensive knowledge of pension regulations
• Strong understanding of pension/platform operations, processes and procedures
• Experience with relevant software and systems (e.g. Origo, SIPP Pro)
• Experience in managing and leading teams
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and project management skills.

• Servicing as a subject matter expert on pensions and platform related issues, particularly within DC, Money Purchase Personal Pension / SIPPs /SSASs
• Pension flexibilities, auto enrolment pension, taxation and Pension Drawdown experience
• Understanding pension legislation, regulations and scheme-specific rules
• Ability to identify and resolve technical issues, often involving complex and detailed calculations, regulatory/legal interpretations.
• Death Benefit Payments, Divorce & Disputes Management
• Ensuring all platform & pension processes comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Handling complaints and escalated issues related to pension schemes.
• Ensuring adherence to relevant pension legislation and regulations.
• Complaint/Internal Dispute resolution Procedures (IDRP) processes with the Compliance and Risk Support.
• Oversee the end-to-end pension technical process, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery of complex tasks.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to pensions technical operations and implement process improvements.
• Managing breach reporting, Death Benefit Management, Pension Discretions, Overpayments.
• Lead and supervise the pensions technical team, ensuring colleagues performing their roles effectively and efficiently.
• Identify areas for improvement within platform/pension operations and implement solutions to enhance efficiency and accuracy.